West African master drummer and performer Assane Seck, founder of the Africa Dobo Drum and Dance Collective based at the Africa House Cultural Center in Cleveland, recently introduced Berea to the rhythms and traditions of Senegalese culture. With his warm smile and engaging personality, he shared his story through conversation, drumming, and dance.
The event, Africa Dobo Drum and Dance Collective Presents: Africa Explains, took place at the Berea Branch Library on February 12. The word “Dobo” signifies unity.
Seck, 43, captivated the culturally curious audience with insights into his upbringing in Dakar, Senegal. Through his distinct accent and lively storytelling, he also provided a brief interactive lesson in his native Wolof language. In addition to Wolof, he speaks French, several other languages, and “a little bit of English.”
Highlighting the cultural significance of drumming, Seck explained that each African country has its own unique drum, historically used for vital communication between communities. His own drum, made of goatskin and Limba wood, originates from Guinea, South Africa.
“In Africa, the drum talks,” Seck said, emphasizing its role in weddings, baby christenings, and other ceremonies. “It is our telephone from a long time ago. Everywhere I go, I carry it. It’s my office. Everything in Africa is about the drum … to communicate and to come together.”
Dispelling common misconceptions, Seck laughed as he addressed the idea that all Africans live among wild animals.
“I grew up in the city,” he said. “If I wanted to see a wild animal, I had to go to the zoo.”
Having arrived in the United States at 19, wearing only sandals, he has since adapted to colder climates.
“I like the snow,” he said. “Where I come from, it is always very hot.”
Concluding the program, Seck taught the audience a traditional African dance and guided a child in playing his drum, leaving a lasting impression on those in attendance.
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